Lamhot Sinaga Reminds the State to Be Present in Protecting Creative Economy Actors

Deputy Chairman of Commission VII of the Indonesian House of Representatives, Lamhot Sinaga, has spotlighted the importance of protection for creative industry actors, following the viral case affecting videographer Amsal Sitepu in the digital realm.

Lamhot assesses that this phenomenon serves as an alarm for all stakeholders to more seriously understand and maintain the national creative economy (ekraf) ecosystem.

According to him, creative workers, such as videographers, designers, and content creators, are an essential part of Indonesia’s new economic face based on innovation and creativity.

However, behind this vibrancy, vulnerabilities persist in aspects of labour protection, business sustainability, and recognition of works.

“This widely discussed case should become a moment for collective reflection. We need to ensure that creative industry practitioners obtain a safe, fair, and sustainable space for their creations,” he stated in a written remark received by Kompas.com on Monday (30/3/2026).

He mentioned that the creative economy is not merely an additional sector, but one of the backbones of future economic growth.

The latest data shows that the creative economy sector contributes more than Rp 1,300 trillion to the national gross domestic product (GDP) in recent years.

This figure, according to Lamhot, reflects the vast potential that continues to develop, particularly with the support of digital technology.

This number continues to increase along with the growing internet penetration and digital platforms in Indonesia.

Lamhot emphasised that the great potential of the ekraf sector must be matched with an adequate protection system.

He stressed that creative workers often find themselves in positions without job certainty, clear contracts, or social protection.

“Many of them work independently or as freelancers. This makes them vulnerable, both economically and legally,” he revealed.